The Proxxon STS 12/E is Turtle Feathers' top recommendation for most crafters in most situations, and this is especially so for gourd artists. The most versatile of all the gourd saws that we carry, the STS 12/E is strongly recommended by Turtle Feathers because we feel that for most people it will handle the widest variety of tasks. The STS includes a flat base plate, a ball base plate, one coarse blade, one fine blade, one hex key with which to change blades, an owners' booklet, and a manufacturer two year warranty. Note: With this saw, a transformer is required. We stock a 5 amp transformer (the most powerful, and the most popular), and also a smaller 2 amp transformer.
About the two base plates that come with the STS: The 'flat' base plate provides the most stability; the 'ball' base plate is the most maneuverable, allowing the clearest view when making intricate cuts or cutting tight curves. The base plates are attached with a single Phillips head screw; thus changing from one to the other is a simple matter.
The saw is a lightweight and powerful machine, ideal for curved cuts in wood up to 10 mm (3/8"), non-ferrous metals up to 2.5 mm (3/32"), sheet metal up to 3.0 mm (1/8"). Its light weight makes it easy to handle and thus allows for precise control of the cutting action. The electronic speed control is adjustable from 2,000 - 5,000 strokes minute. (Maximum power input: 100 watts.)
Two year warranty. (Approximately 1 pound and 3 ounces - 7 1/2" long, 2" wide, and 3 1/2" high.)
~ Note: This saw requires the use of a transformer.
Heavy Duty Transformer NG/5E
$58.50 - 5 amp, with speed control. #38704
Transformer NG 2/S
$21.80 - 2 amp #38706
Coarse Blades
(Not recommended for metal.)
17 tpi (teeth per inch). Tooth pitch 1/16". 2 1/4" x 7/64" x 1/64".
Price: $3.75 - Package of two. #28054
Fine Blades
(Recommended for metal. Made of HSS. [High Strength Steel])
24 tpi (teeth per inch). Tooth pitch 3/64". 2 1/4" x 7/64" x 1/64".
Price: $4.75 - Package of two. #28056
Though optional, the Foot Switch is recommended for use with this saw. The Foot Switch acts as a remote 'on/off' switch. One end plugs into a standard power outlet, and the other end plugs into the transformer. Due to an inconveniently located on/off switch on the saw itself, the addition of the Foot Switch makes the STS much easier to manage, and is strongly preferred by most users.
$24.70 - #28700
Saw Clamp
The Saw Clamp converts the saw to 'hands free' use. The clamp is placed around the saw which is, in turn, placed into a standard vise, which acts as a 'third hand', holding the saw rock steady. The user now has two hands free with which to guide the work.
$9.00 - #28410
~ Need a vise to use with the Saw Clamp? We stock two good ones.
FMS 75 Vise
Vise with powerful 'suction' base. Just turn the lever at the base - and the suction action will 'bolt' the vise in place. A very strong bond is created.
$35.00 - #28602
FMZ Vise
Vise with dual mounting capability. The FMZ screw clamps to edge of table or work surface; or it can be bolted to the work table as a permanent mount.
$35.00 - #28608
Mini Tool Conversion Cords - $4.50
Replacement 'Ball' Base Plate - $3.00
Set Screw & Hex Key Set - $2.00
